Medical expert of the article
New publications
Pathomimia (Munchausen syndrome): causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Pathomimia (synonyms: Munchausen syndrome, simulation)
Causes: Damage to the skin by intensive scratching or any other objects (knife, scissors, etc.), chemicals (alkalis, acids, etc.), burns, etc.; on visible areas of the skin by people to evoke a feeling of pity or sympathy in others.
Symptoms. Erosion, ulcers or scratches are observed on open, hand-accessible areas of the gel. Skin damage can be disfiguring. People with altered psyche, depressed mood, and difficulty adapting to the surrounding conditions are ill. Usually, these people are very sensitive, with a vulnerable psyche, withdrawn, aggressive. Patients with pathomimia suffer from various disorders in other organs and systems.
Treatment. Consultation with a neuropsychiatrist, symptomatic treatment of skin lesions (antibiotics, antiseptics, corticosteroids). For the correction of mental disorders, an antidepressant - depress (20 mg per day) and neuroleptics have a good effect.
[ 1 ]
What do need to examine?
How to examine?